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Planning Ahead: What Agencies Need to Know About the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan

Planning Ahead: What Agencies Need to Know About the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan

3.2 minute read

May 27, 2025

Urban water planning in California isn’t just a regulatory obligation—it’s a vital opportunity to ensure your community is prepared for a resilient, sustainable future. With the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) due to the Department of Water Resources (DWR) by July 1, 2026, now is the time for city leaders to begin planning for this data- and resource-intensive process.

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Unlock Federal Funding for Resilience Projects Through HMGP DR-4856

Unlock Federal Funding for Resilience Projects Through HMGP DR-4856

2.9 minute read

May 19, 2025

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with CalOES, has announced Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) DR-4856, a major new funding opportunity in response to the recent Los Angeles Fires. Funding is directed toward mitigation rather than recovery so jurisdictions throughout California may apply. With a broad range of eligible project types and a tight timeline, now is the time for public agencies to start preparing.

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Harris' Contributions to Caltrain's Electrification: A Community-Driven Success

Harris' Contributions to Caltrain's Electrification: A Community-Driven Success

2.0 minute read

April 10, 2025

Since 2017, Harris & Associates has played a significant role in helping the Caltrain modernization program and electrifying its rail system, providing essential services that have revolutionized transportation in Silicon Valley. The electrification project, which unveiled September 2024, is a pivotal moment for Caltrain and the surrounding communities. With the promise of smoother, faster, and environmentally friendlier service, the transition to electric trains has been met with excitement and enthusiasm by the public.

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The LA Fires Recovery: A Guide for Residents and Agencies

The LA Fires Recovery: A Guide for Residents and Agencies

10.1 minute read

April 03, 2025

In January 2025, the Palisades and Eaton Fires devastated Southern California—burning over 1,200 acres, destroying more than 16,000 structures, and displacing 150,000 residents. Now, with containment achieved, local, state, and federal agencies are working together to support survivors and rebuild resilient communities.

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Introducing SB 502: Expanding Workforce Housing for Educational Entities

Introducing SB 502: Expanding Workforce Housing for Educational Entities

2.2 minute read

March 25, 2025

California Senate Bill 502, introduced in 2025, proposes amendments to the Building Homes and Jobs Trust Fund to allocate dedicated funding for local educational agencies, aiming to alleviate the housing affordability crisis impacting teachers and school staff by allowing school districts and community colleges access to a portion of the fund.

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Understanding AB 2257: Strengthening Transparency and Stability in Local Rate-Setting Processes

Understanding AB 2257: Strengthening Transparency and Stability in Local Rate-Setting Processes

4.2 minute read

February 28, 2025

California’s new Assembly Bill 2257 (AB 2257) introduces critical changes for local agencies navigating property-related water and sewer fees and assessments under Proposition 218. Harris & Associates, with its expertise in municipal finance, community planning, and risk management, is uniquely positioned to help local agencies meet the new requirements efficiently while maximizing public engagement and maintaining compliance.

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Black History Month: The Historic Significance of Altadena, CA

Black History Month: The Historic Significance of Altadena, CA

3.0 minute read

February 20, 2025

The unincorporated community of Altadena, located in Southern California, has a unique history as a predominantly Black community, standing in contrast to its neighboring cities. While surrounding areas enforced discriminatory practices like redlining—which prevented Black individuals from purchasing homes in many neighborhoods—Altadena became a refuge for Black residents during the mid-20th century.

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Harris & Associates Brings Communities Together Through Innovative Transit Solutions

Harris & Associates Brings Communities Together Through Innovative Transit Solutions

2.7 minute read

February 04, 2025

Transit Equity Day, celebrated annually on February 4th, honors the legacy of Rosa Parks and serves as a call to action to ensure equitable access to safe, affordable, and sustainable public transit for all. At Harris & Associates, our purpose—“to build equitable, resilient, and sustainable communities.”—aligns seamlessly with the values of Transit Equity Day. Our work is guided by a clear vision of improving lives through the thoughtful design, management, and delivery of transformative infrastructure projects.

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Leading with Purpose Amid the LA County Wildfires

Leading with Purpose Amid the LA County Wildfires

1.7 minute read

January 17, 2025

The wildfires devastating Los Angeles County have taken lives, displaced families, and left entire communities reeling. At Harris & Associates, we believe in leading with empathy and purpose and each of us plays a role in building more equitable, resilient, and sustainable communities.

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Harris & Associates’ 2024 Year in Review

Harris & Associates’ 2024 Year in Review

8.6 minute read

December 23, 2024

As 2024 draws to a close, we reflect on a year marked by growth, leadership, and collective impact. This year, Harris & Associates celebrated 50 years of service, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to solving complex challenges for municipal, water, transportation, and educational institutions. Guided by our Purpose—to build equitable, resilient, and sustainable communities—we have worked smarter together to deepen relationships, achieve national recognition, and deliver lasting value for the communities we serve. Here is a look back at the milestones that made 2024 truly monumental.

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Unlocking Proposition 2 Funding

Unlocking Proposition 2 Funding

8.6 minute read

December 13, 2024

At Harris & Associates, we are proud to stand at the forefront of helping California school districts create sustainable, future-ready learning environments. Our extensive experience in capital project management, combined with our commitment to serving communities, positions us to best support districts in leveraging funding opportunities like Proposition 2 effectively. As experts in infrastructure improvements, we align your educational and community goals with building requirements. Harris & Associates is uniquely equipped to guide districts through these structured requirements. Here’s a closer look at the critical elements districts need to include to qualify for this transformative funding.

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Maximizing School District Funding: Securing Bonds on the Ballot with Harris & Associates

Maximizing School District Funding: Securing Bonds on the Ballot with Harris & Associates

5.0 minute read

November 01, 2024

With decades of experience helping educational institutions identify and secure funding, Harris & Associates provides the expertise to navigate bond approval, engage communities, and deliver on infrastructure goals through innovative services like lease-leaseback construction.

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Two Leaders Modernizing Transit Infrastructure

Two Leaders Modernizing Transit Infrastructure

4.5 minute read

October 28, 2024

The Caltrain Board of Directors advocated for the Caltrain electrified service plan, and soon unveiled Caltrain’s Electrified Service Vision for 2024. Harris & Associates became selected as the leading partner to fulfill Caltrain’s push for sustainability and modernization through its electrification, laying the groundwork for a more efficient, environmentally friendly, and technologically advanced future.

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Stormwater Funding Strategies – Selecting for Success

Stormwater Funding Strategies – Selecting for Success

10.8 minute read

October 07, 2024

Stormwater management is often overlooked as a critical part of community resilience, public health and the environment. From controlling flooding to ensuring clean water reaches California’s streams and rivers, proper stormwater management is essential for both environmental health and community resiliency. Agencies are facing aging infrastructure combined with more intense rainfall events, which have the potential to cause negative impacts to aquatic and riparian habitats, damage to property and infrastructure, even loss of life.

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Case Study: Paving New Paths in the County of Monterey

Case Study: Paving New Paths in the County of Monterey

8.7 minute read

September 03, 2024

Over the past decade, the County of Monterey has undergone significant changes to address various infrastructure needs and improve community facilities to preserve its core foundation and history. Among those were road and transportation projects requiring major road rehabilitation projects, public facilities upgrades, environmental and safety improvements, and beyond.

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Navigating the Impact of SB 423 on California Municipalities

Navigating the Impact of SB 423 on California Municipalities

7.4 minute read

August 22, 2024

California's SB 423, a transformative piece of housing legislation, promises to significantly alter the landscape of housing development across the state. As municipalities grapple with the implications of this new law, it is crucial to understand the new mandates for jurisdictions and the implications on local governmental control. Here, we dissect SB 423, its requirements, and how Harris' Community Development + Housing services can support municipalities in navigating these changes.

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Case Study: Cultivating Change with the City of Watsonville

Case Study: Cultivating Change with the City of Watsonville

4.6 minute read

August 13, 2024

The City of Watsonville’s agricultural prominence has required the city to evolve and cultivate its own change. Over the years, the City has embarked on several initiatives to preserve its rich history and heritage, while also addressing infrastructure needs, climate change and resiliency, and the community’s safety and well-being. Harris & Associates has been a pivotal partner in these efforts, providing a wide range of services over the years.

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50 Years and Counting

50 Years and Counting

4.7 minute read

July 17, 2024

Harris celebrates five decades of building stronger communities and serving as a trusted partner and advisor to clients across the West Coast.

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HSIP Cycle 12 Call-for-projects Is Now Active!

HSIP Cycle 12 Call-for-projects Is Now Active!

2.0 minute read

June 13, 2024

Earlier last month The Highway Safety Improvement Program Cycle 12 announced a call-for-projects. At Harris & Associates, we are committed to creating safer communities and assisting local jurisdictions in mitigating fatalities and life-threatening injuries across California’s public roadways. Harris' Transportation Team is here to help and can submit HSIP Cycle 12 applications on our clients’ behalf.

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Meet the Team Behind Harris’ Holistic Approach to Complex Projects

Meet the Team Behind Harris’ Holistic Approach to Complex Projects

10.3 minute read

June 10, 2024

For many municipalities, planning and developing projects entails an intricate process with multiple steps and stages. Whether you’re working to improve residents’ quality of life or solving infrastructure problems, you may face struggles with legal compliance issues, environmental planning, or budgetary constraints.

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Elevating Inclusivity: Key Takeaways on Accessible Content from the 2024 ACES Conference

Elevating Inclusivity: Key Takeaways on Accessible Content from the 2024 ACES Conference

4.9 minute read

June 10, 2024

Learn how to make your content accessible to all, with tips from experts at the 2024 ACES: The Society for Editing Conference.

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5 New California Housing Bills for 2024: A Guide

5 New California Housing Bills for 2024: A Guide

4.1 minute read

May 30, 2024

Learn more about SB 4, SB 423, AB 1033, AB1332, and AB 480; California’s new housing bill updates that went into effect January 1, 2024.

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AB 516 and What It Means for Your Development Impact Fees

AB 516 and What It Means for Your Development Impact Fees

3.3 minute read

April 26, 2024

Learn more about AB 516 and what it means for your development impact fees.

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Celebrating Women at Harris Who Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Celebrating Women at Harris Who Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

3.2 minute read

March 26, 2024

As we celebrate Women's History Month this March, we honor the profound impact women have made and continue to make in shaping our country, our communities, our industry, and our company. This year's national theme, "Women who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion," resonates deeply with our Shared Values at Harris & Associates.

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AB 2097 and the Impacts on Parking-in-Lieu Fees

AB 2097 and the Impacts on Parking-in-Lieu Fees

3.0 minute read

October 27, 2023

Learn more about AB 2097 and how it could impact parking in your City.

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What Is a CRIA?

What Is a CRIA?

3.9 minute read

October 24, 2023

Did you know there’s a tool to help you revitalize your city without raising taxes? A Community Revitalization and Investment Authority, or CRIA, offers a way to improve areas of your city while relying on the property taxes in the designated revitalization zone. This gives you a sustainable way to fund much-needed projects without increasing the taxpayer burden.

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Key Insights from the 2023 California Adaptation Forum

Key Insights from the 2023 California Adaptation Forum

7.1 minute read

August 16, 2023

California is already experiencing the impacts of a changing climate, including shifts in the frequency and severity of extreme weather events. With the recognition that adapting to the effects of climate change will require all levels of government, business, and communities to coordinate on solutions, over 800 climate professionals attended the 2023 Climate Adaptation Forum in Pomona. This three-day conference, hosted biennially by CivicWell in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, included more than 60 sessions.

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2023 AEP Highlights for Environmental Professionals

2023 AEP Highlights for Environmental Professionals

3.9 minute read

June 26, 2023

The California Association of Environmental Professionals (AEP) hosted another successful and informative in-person conference in April. With more than 40 sessions and five different tracks, the 2023 AEP annual conference offered excellent insights into current issues in environmental planning. Our own William "Bill" Halligan and Darin Neufeld both attended and participated in panel discussions. We’ve put together a recap of some of the major topics including climate adaptation and DEI in the environmental profession.

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Weathering the Storms: Planning for and Responding to California’s Severe Climate Events

Weathering the Storms: Planning for and Responding to California’s Severe Climate Events

5.9 minute read

March 30, 2023

A seemingly steady wave of weather-related catastrophes have pummeled California communities in recent months. When storms damage critical infrastructure, officials have to move quickly. They need trusted advisors in engineering and construction management to help get their communities back to full functionality and minimize any losses.

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Elevating Employee Health and Wellness Through Fitness at Harris

Elevating Employee Health and Wellness Through Fitness at Harris

2.6 minute read

March 01, 2023

At Harris & Associates, one of our Shared Values is to Invest in Our People and we embody this Shared Value by promoting a culture of health and wellness across our organization. Our various fitness activities not only promote physical health—they also contribute to a positive work-life balance and a sense of community among our employee-owners.

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Harris Helps Victorville Make History as California's First CRIA

Harris Helps Victorville Make History as California's First CRIA

4.2 minute read

March 01, 2023

Harris helps Victorville to make history as the first city in California to implement a Community Revitalization and Investment Authority (CRIA).

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Harris Supports the Development of Emerging Industry Leaders

Harris Supports the Development of Emerging Industry Leaders

2.0 minute read

January 10, 2023

Investing in our exceptional people has long been a core shared value at Harris. As part of a comprehensive benefits package, Harris reimburses employee-owners for industry certifications and dues for professional organization memberships. We also support employee-owners on their journeys to becoming leaders in their respective fields.

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Meet Ronald Sofe, U.S. Professional Fellows Program – Oceania

Meet Ronald Sofe, U.S. Professional Fellows Program – Oceania

5.0 minute read

October 31, 2022

Harris sits down with Oceania fellow Ronald Sofe to discuss his experiences working in the energy sector in Papua New Guinea, and how his time with Harris has shaped his plans moving forward.

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Discover the Uncommon Employee Benefits of Joining Harris

Discover the Uncommon Employee Benefits of Joining Harris

4.7 minute read

September 16, 2022

As an 100% employee-owned firm since 2012, Harris takes great pride in offering robust benefits packages tailored to the lives of today’s workers. Along with competitive compensation, Harris employee-owners enjoy a wide variety of uncommon perks that help support their personal and professional growth, strike a healthy work-life balance, and promote their overall wellbeing.

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On Juneteenth: Shining a bright light on diversity, equity and inclusion efforts

On Juneteenth: Shining a bright light on diversity, equity and inclusion efforts

4.2 minute read

June 20, 2022

This week, as we commemorate the end of slavery in the United States on Juneteenth, it’s only fitting that business owners and leaders take stock of their organizations. But at Harris & Associates, we hold ourselves to a more rigorous standard. We’ve been shining a bright light on our diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts for years—and taking action to live up to our values in this area.

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How Complete Streets Move Safety and Equity Forward

How Complete Streets Move Safety and Equity Forward

5.0 minute read

June 13, 2022

Streets should serve everyone in a community, regardless of their age, mobility status, or preferred mode of transportation. That’s the concept behind Complete Streets—a process and approach to street design gaining traction nationwide and here in California.

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How Can We Stop the Loss of Biodiversity?

How Can We Stop the Loss of Biodiversity?

5.8 minute read

May 31, 2022

Biodiversity can be measured on a global scale or in tiny ecosystems like those in our backyards, hometowns, and city parks. Because we are responsible for disturbances to our local ecosystems, we must take part in repairing the disturbance and promoting healthier conditions.

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The Ingredients of a Winning Workplace Culture

The Ingredients of a Winning Workplace Culture

2.4 minute read

May 24, 2022

Year after year, Harris earns Top Workplaces designations from news outlets across California. What makes Harris such a consistent honoree? We attribute our recognitions to a friendly and rewarding culture that puts people first, a strong community where employees trust and care for one another, work on thought-provoking projects, and a dedication to innovating for our clients.

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Construction Managers Bring a Culture of Safety to Every Job

Construction Managers Bring a Culture of Safety to Every Job

4.0 minute read

April 11, 2022

When you think of all the players and moving parts involved with construction projects, it’s easy to understand how things could quickly go wrong, with potentially tragic consequences. That’s why safety-minded project owners are relying more on construction managers to guide their projects to completion not only on time and on budget, but also without incident.

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Biodiversity in Peril

Biodiversity in Peril

9.1 minute read

April 04, 2022

Biodiversity is currently being lost at a rate not seen since the previous mass extinction 65 million years ago—it’s actually declining faster than previously estimated. The numbers tell a bleak story: if nothing changes, up to a million species may become extinct within the next 100 years. Learn from Harris & Associates about how biodiversity is in peril.

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How to Win Grant Funds for Your Water Project

How to Win Grant Funds for Your Water Project

4.0 minute read

February 17, 2022

From stormwater capture systems to wastewater purification, counties and municipalities across the state are struggling to fund solutions. Here are answers to questions around how water agencies can more effectively pursue and obtain grants for their water projects.

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Getting Started: Regional Infrastructure Recovery for Smaller California Water Utilities

Getting Started: Regional Infrastructure Recovery for Smaller California Water Utilities

4.7 minute read

February 15, 2022

In December 2021, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced plans to provide over $600 million in funding for 2022 to help water infrastructure in California recover from years of under-investment, increasing pressures from drought and contamination, and increasing cost burden on families struggling to make ends meet, with more funding planned over the next five years. This financial boom presents a historic opportunity to address longstanding problems along with issues of water quality, water equity, protecting natural resources, and public health.

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Running Low on Snow: A Five-Year Plan for California Water Agencies

Running Low on Snow: A Five-Year Plan for California Water Agencies

4.4 minute read

February 04, 2022

The December 2, 2021, article in the Los Angeles Times was a wakeup call for those working in the California water industry. As snow disappears, the resulting costs to capture, store, and transport water will go up significantly—placing added burden on our economy and further financial stress on the State’s most economically disadvantaged residents.

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Examining AB 602, Impact Fees, and the Future of Development in California

Examining AB 602, Impact Fees, and the Future of Development in California

2.3 minute read

November 24, 2021

Soon after winning a recall election in September 2021, Governor Gavin Newsom signed 31 housing-related bills designed to combat the housing crisis. Many of these bills sought to either remove or mitigate regulatory barriers, including the much-discussed AB 602.

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New Funding Means New Opportunities for Water Equity in California

New Funding Means New Opportunities for Water Equity in California

3.6 minute read

November 23, 2021

Cities and water agencies are struggling to keep up with failing infrastructure, aging pipes, dried-up wells, and more. These problems are especially prevalent in low-income communities, which leads to serious concerns about water equity.

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Why is Biodiversity Important?

Why is Biodiversity Important?

8.9 minute read

November 09, 2021

In this post, we will dive into exactly why biodiversity is so important and why all those tiny plants and insects (like mosquitos, ugh) really matter. Biodiversity supports the health and well-being, food safety and security, and overall economic prosperity of human beings. It also provides cultural security and vibrancy, ensuring that we not only maintain our cultural differences but can pass them on to new generations.

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Why and How to Communicate with Bias-Free, Inclusive Language

Why and How to Communicate with Bias-Free, Inclusive Language

12.3 minute read

August 18, 2021

At Harris, we scrutinize closely the words and images we use, understanding that even a small amount of bias, however unintentional, could have large, negative impacts. Learn how to communicate with bias-free and inclusive language.

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How Diverse is Biodiversity?

How Diverse is Biodiversity?

7.1 minute read

July 21, 2021

Biodiversity is quite diverse and it comes in different types and degrees, starting as small as genetics and moving to entire ecosystems. Learn from Harris & Associates about how diverse biodiversity really is.

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Adapt & Advance

Adapt & Advance

2.7 minute read

July 15, 2021

With Adapt & Advance, Harris & Associates hosted collaborative virtual workshops in response to our clients’ needs around business continuity, workload support, balancing challenging budgets, and protecting our communities. We took the opportunity to strengthen connections with long-standing partners and navigate uncertainty together.

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What is Biodiversity?

What is Biodiversity?

4.0 minute read

June 21, 2021

We rely on biodiversity for our food, water, shelter, and medicine. Evidence of its work is everywhere, from the clean air we breathe and the water we drink to the rich soils that grow our crops and the bountiful oceans that surround us.

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Funding Your Water Management Programs

Funding Your Water Management Programs

4.0 minute read

May 19, 2021

If you’re seeking a way to fund your critical water resource and management projects, you may have a solution in the form of a grant from the Integrated Regional Water Management (IRWM) program.

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Water Rates 101 for Water Utilities

Water Rates 101 for Water Utilities

9.8 minute read

April 08, 2021

Water is central to California’s identity, economy, and culture. Effectively managing this critical resource—with its many complex layers—requires an understanding of the costs incurred to supply water and how we price water to recover those costs from the communities served.

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A Better, Safer Walkthrough

A Better, Safer Walkthrough

2.0 minute read

March 24, 2021

Since the pandemic makes it difficult for clients to visit jobsites, Harris found a way to bring jobsites to our clients: the Insta360 ONE X camera. This state-of-the-art camera, in conjunction with StructionSite software, provides a 360-degree jobsite walkthrough that captures every angle needed to review and assess work progress—images a regular camera would not pick up.

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Smarter Teams Get Better Results

Smarter Teams Get Better Results

1.5 minute read

January 11, 2021

At Harris & Associates, we’re committed to staying ahead of changes and trends so we can provide our clients with the most effective solutions. In July 2020, we doubled down on this commitment by launching PMCM SMART Talks.

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Updating Your General Plan Housing Element

Updating Your General Plan Housing Element

3.9 minute read

December 28, 2020

Housing Element updates show how and where jurisdictions will accommodate new housing units in compliance with the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). California updates housing elements in five- or eight-year cycles and require certification from the state and the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). Learn from Harris & Associates experts about the top issues related to housing element revisions that all California jurisdictions with upcoming deadlines must take into account.

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Zero Net Energy Planning

Zero Net Energy Planning

3.8 minute read

December 04, 2020

Harris’ project and construction management teams, together with our sustainability experts, are helping clients reach their zero net energy goals. Recently, we worked with the Culver City Unified School District (CCUSD) on a multi-campus project to incorporate a Zero Net Energy Master Plan into their Facilities Master Plan.

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SB 330: The Housing Crisis Act of 2019—Previewing What Jurisdictions Need to Know

SB 330: The Housing Crisis Act of 2019—Previewing What Jurisdictions Need to Know

2.4 minute read

November 03, 2020

SB 330 changes certain aspects of the Permit Streamlining Act and Housing Accountability Act. While the bill modifies regulations regarding project approval, timelines, procedures, and penalties, this post will focus on the changes to a jurisdiction’s ability to increase development impact fee programs. Learn from Harris & Associates about navigating the changes to development impact fee programs.

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AB 1483 and Increased Fee Transparency

AB 1483 and Increased Fee Transparency

1.5 minute read

November 02, 2020

On October 9, 2019, California’s Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1483 (AB1483), which increases transparency for residential development project applicants. Specifically, AB1483 requires agencies to publish on their websites specific financial and zoning information. Learn more from Harris & Associates about AB1483 and new internet reporting requirements.

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Inside Harris & Associates’ People-First Approach to COVID-19

Inside Harris & Associates’ People-First Approach to COVID-19

4.9 minute read

October 14, 2020

Like many firms, Harris & Associates had to quickly adjust our way of doing business. Keeping our employees safe and healthy and addressing their need for direction as the situation evolved was imperative. While that entailed changes and challenging decisions, it was also a moment to reexamine the why and how of the way we work, and what putting people first truly means in moments of crisis.

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Development Impact Fee Annual Reporting

Development Impact Fee Annual Reporting

2.1 minute read

September 25, 2020

With each fiscal year, agencies must adhere to numerous requirements around their finances. This includes everything from their annual budget to comprehensive annual financial reports. One annual requirement that agencies often overlook is the Development Impact Fee Annual Report.

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From Our CEO: California Wildfires

From Our CEO: California Wildfires

2.2 minute read

August 25, 2020

The dog days of summer have turned vicious for many communities in California. As of this writing 1.4 million acres of California have burned in some extremely challenging terrain where communities once felt safe. The story is becoming all too familiar to us: dry winter, low snowpack, accumulation of tinder dry vegetation, and monsoonal weather patterns producing thunder and lightning and ensuing fire storms.

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Understanding California’s Planning Update Cycles

Understanding California’s Planning Update Cycles

3.8 minute read

July 22, 2020

Statewide and local legislative initiatives and policies require advanced plan coordination through strategic update cycles. Communities use general plan updates to address all new legislative requirements passed since their previous update. That said, the Office of Planning and Research’s annual planning survey in 2018 found that, while nearly 90% of all local jurisdictions comply with housing element requirements, only 30% of plan safety elements comply.

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5 Legislative Initiatives that Effect Climate Adaptation Planning at the Local Level

5 Legislative Initiatives that Effect Climate Adaptation Planning at the Local Level

3.3 minute read

July 22, 2020

California has enacted legislation in the past five years that created a new paradigm for local planning efforts, requiring cities and municipalities to include climate risk and resilience strategies through various plan updates.

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A Review of California’s Statewide Climate Adaptation Policies

A Review of California’s Statewide Climate Adaptation Policies

3.2 minute read

July 22, 2020

In just five years, California’s climate adaptation policies have evolved at a dramatic pace—and the changes keep coming. As a result, many local governments are scrambling to navigate and comply with the myriad of legislative mandates and plan update cycles.

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Construction Management and COVID-19

Construction Management and COVID-19

2.9 minute read

July 10, 2020

As the COVID-19 crisis brought much of the world to a near halt in early March, many construction projects deemed unessential were either cancelled or delayed, resulting in employee layoffs and revenue shortfalls. For projects that did continue, field crews have faced unprecedented challenges, including supply chain disruptions and limited personal interactions.

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Black Lives Matter: We Must Change Now

Black Lives Matter: We Must Change Now

1.5 minute read

June 11, 2020

The current protests and elevated concerns around the treatment of black people in America have created an awakening for many and validation for others. For many of us, we want to take actions, solve the problem, feel a sense of guilt, confront things head on...and perhaps others are angry and don’t know what to do.

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Responding to COVID-19: A CEO’s Perspective

Responding to COVID-19: A CEO’s Perspective

3.6 minute read

May 21, 2020

Harris & Associates CEO, Lisa Larrabee discusses how leadership plays a vital role at a company during COVID-19 and the view from a CEO's perspective.

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Four Ways for Municipalities to Confront Homelessness

Four Ways for Municipalities to Confront Homelessness

5.3 minute read

May 20, 2020

With the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to understand, and be prepared for, how the social and economic impacts of the pandemic will impact the homelessness crisis. Economic indicators such as skyrocketing unemployment combined with moratoriums and other short-term solutions coming to an end indicate a pending avalanche of new homeless throughout the state.

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Visualizing Risk: 4 Apps to Assess Sea Level Rise Vulnerability

Visualizing Risk: 4 Apps to Assess Sea Level Rise Vulnerability

4.2 minute read

April 17, 2020

California, like so many other coastal states in America, is grappling with the new reality of sea level rise and more frequent coastal flooding events. To assist in their planning efforts, municipal leaders need access not only to projections of future rising and flooding over multiple time horizons, but also to geographic translations of how certain levels of inundation will impact their shorelines. Fortunately, there are several different tools publicly available offering access to the best sea level rise models on web mapping applications.

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Visualizing Risk: Preparing for Extreme Precipitation

Visualizing Risk: Preparing for Extreme Precipitation

3.2 minute read

April 17, 2020

To adequately prepare for urban flooding local jurisdictions must assess and communicate their projected exposure to extreme precipitation. Harris has identified and reviewed several tools, models, and methods available for municipalities and governing agencies to communicate risks and identify priority areas for adaptation interventions/projects.

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Visualizing Risk: Preparing for Drought

Visualizing Risk: Preparing for Drought

3.6 minute read

April 17, 2020

To adequately prepare for drought events, local jurisdictions must assess and communicate the extent to which their community is exposed and sensitive to climate stressors. Harris has identified and reviewed several models and tools available for municipalities and governing agencies to do so in their planning documents.

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Visualizing Risk: Extreme Heat Events

Visualizing Risk: Extreme Heat Events

5.9 minute read

April 17, 2020

Harris has identified and reviewed several tools, models, and methods available for municipalities and governing agencies to communicate the risk of heat events and to identify priority areas for heat adaptation investments in planning documents.

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Combining Local Hazard Mitigation and Climate Adaptation Planning

Combining Local Hazard Mitigation and Climate Adaptation Planning

3.2 minute read

March 09, 2020

Recent legislative and regulatory requirements are pushing cities and economic sectors in California to abandon stand-alone climate adaptation plans in favor of a more integrated approach.

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Implementing Climate Adaptation Without Grant Funding

Implementing Climate Adaptation Without Grant Funding

2.2 minute read

March 09, 2020

The effects of climate change require a fundamental shift in the building and functioning of our communities, including the way we address and plan for risks. One example is embedding climate adaptation considerations and initiatives within municipal activities such as hazard mitigation or climate action planning.

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New Law Toughens Requirements Around Impact Fee Reporting

New Law Toughens Requirements Around Impact Fee Reporting

2.0 minute read

October 31, 2018

SB 1202 is a bill that increases transparency around how agencies spend impact fees collected from developers. Under the bill, any agency that fails to report its impact fee spending can face an independent audit at the agency’s own expense.

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What Do PG&E’s Rule 20A Changes Mean for Your Utility Undergrounding Project?

What Do PG&E’s Rule 20A Changes Mean for Your Utility Undergrounding Project?

3.3 minute read

October 16, 2018

Learn about changes to Rule 20A and how they impact the utility undergrounding process and what your city can do to make sure the process goes smoothly.

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Big Sur’s Palo Colorado Road Repair: Streamlining Approval, Improving Lives, and Improving the Environment

Big Sur’s Palo Colorado Road Repair: Streamlining Approval, Improving Lives, and Improving the Environment

5.0 minute read

September 18, 2018

Learn how Harris & Associates assisted Monterey County Public Works with project management, streamlined environmental permitting, surveying, geotechnical assessment, preliminary design, community outreach, and final PS&E for Big Sur's Palo Colorado Road Repair.

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5 Steps to a More Resilient Community

5 Steps to a More Resilient Community

4.8 minute read

July 16, 2018

Learn these 5 steps to create a more resilient community. Building a better local hazard mitigation plan can help your community recover quickly from adverse events and minimize or mitigate service disruptions.

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How to Tap Into California’s New Housing Incentives

How to Tap Into California’s New Housing Incentives

6.3 minute read

May 07, 2018

Read how of the 15 housing bills designed in large part to incentivize affordable housing projects, address two of the biggest challenges for agencies and developers alike: funding and cumbersome review processes. This post details SB540, AB73 and SB3.

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What Agencies and Developers Need to Know About California’s New Affordable Housing Bills

What Agencies and Developers Need to Know About California’s New Affordable Housing Bills

4.9 minute read

November 01, 2017

Responding to what he and many experts have deemed a housing crisis, Governor Brown recently signed 15 bills aimed at stimulating affordable housing development in the most efficient ways possible. These laws have major implications for municipalities and developers alike.

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SB 231—A New Tool to Help Agencies Fund Stormwater Programs—Is It Right for You?

SB 231—A New Tool to Help Agencies Fund Stormwater Programs—Is It Right for You?

2.8 minute read

October 13, 2017

The passage of Senate Bill 231, signed by Governor Brown on October 6th, gives agencies an important new tool to fund infrastructure programs.

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Bridges Over Troubled Waters in Big Sur: Palo Colorado Road Repair Project

Bridges Over Troubled Waters in Big Sur: Palo Colorado Road Repair Project

4.7 minute read

September 26, 2017

Harris helps with the emergency repair of Monterey County’s Palo Colorado Road after fire and heavy rains led to the creeks blowing out part of the road and cutting off more than 60 homes from the outside world.

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More Money, More Accountability: How SB1 Changed the Role of the California Transportation Commission

More Money, More Accountability: How SB1 Changed the Role of the California Transportation Commission

2.5 minute read

August 28, 2017

Learn how the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (SB1) expanded the California Transportation Commission's role and responsibilities for transportation projects.

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Active Transportation Program (ATP) Augmentation Funding: How to Get First Money from SB1

Active Transportation Program (ATP) Augmentation Funding: How to Get First Money from SB1

4.8 minute read

August 08, 2017

Learn about new guidelines for the Active Transportation Program (ATP), which receives $100 million per year in new funding via SB1. This means $200 million in new money is now available for projects in fiscal years 2017-18 and 2018-19

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California's Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (SB1): Make Sure Your Agency is Ready to Capture Funding

California's Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (SB1): Make Sure Your Agency is Ready to Capture Funding

2.5 minute read

June 29, 2017

With new transportation funding on the way from the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (SB1), learn what the next steps are for your agency in order to get ready to capture the first funds available.

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Pavement Management Program (Part 2): Utilizing StreetSaver® for Simpler, Smarter Decisions

Pavement Management Program (Part 2): Utilizing StreetSaver® for Simpler, Smarter Decisions

3.6 minute read

June 14, 2017

Discover how MTC's StreetSaver® pavement management program (PMP) software gives agencies granular details and reports about their pavement assets so decision makers can make empowered judgements about how to manage them.

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Water Rate Design: A Better Path to Cost Recovery

Water Rate Design: A Better Path to Cost Recovery

5.1 minute read

June 08, 2017

For many water utilities, a larger portion of revenue recovery has historically been accomplished through its variable pricing component, and yet from a cost of service standpoint water utilities typically incur a higher level of fixed costs compared to costs that vary with water usage.

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Pavement Management Programs (Part 1): Why "Worst First" Isn't Always Best for your Asset Management

Pavement Management Programs (Part 1): Why "Worst First" Isn't Always Best for your Asset Management

2.9 minute read

June 06, 2017

Often agencies want to address what seems to be their most pressing pavement issues first because their budget won’t cover every need. However, we often find counterintuitive results that can help them squeeze 30% more value from their budgets. Learn how using a pavement management program to make data-driven decisions can generate better results and save money over the long term.

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2017 No-Dig Show Recap: Three Trenchless Innovations Worth Knowing

2017 No-Dig Show Recap: Three Trenchless Innovations Worth Knowing

3.0 minute read

May 15, 2017

Three trenchless innovations worth knowing from the 2017 No-Dig Show including better pipe lining for water mains, HDPE welding, and shotcrete shaft lining.

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The Rains are Finally Letting Up, But How's Your Jobsite's Trenching and Shoring Holding Up?

The Rains are Finally Letting Up, But How's Your Jobsite's Trenching and Shoring Holding Up?

2.5 minute read

May 03, 2017

Review best practices for soils, trenching and shoring safety on the construction site. Even experienced construction crews benefit from periodic reminders of how to protect life, property and mitigate these types of risks around trenches

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How to Secure Funding for Your Stormwater and Floodplain Improvements

How to Secure Funding for Your Stormwater and Floodplain Improvements

7.1 minute read

March 28, 2017

Floodplain issues demand constant attention: new risks, runoff, you name it. It’s not your choice to forgo maintenance or improvements, but you don’t have the funds to cover it all. What do you do?

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Water Utility Financing: Stakeholder Outreach Means Everything

Water Utility Financing: Stakeholder Outreach Means Everything

5.3 minute read

March 23, 2017

Learn stakeholder outreach techniques water utilities can use to help securing support for water infrastructure funding.

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Effective Management Keeps Carlsbad Water Recycling Project Moving Swiftly

Effective Management Keeps Carlsbad Water Recycling Project Moving Swiftly

4.6 minute read

December 06, 2016

How can a city feel confident about a large design-build project when it has less control over the process? When Harris' Gary Beach is on the project to represent the City’s interests and ensure the details of every day’s work deliver on DB’s potential.

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Case In Point: Learn How to Protect Your Next Assessment

Case In Point: Learn How to Protect Your Next Assessment

3.1 minute read

July 27, 2016

Public finance experts at Harris discusses the recent case of Sacramento Taxpayers Association, et al., v. County of Sacramento, et al., in which the Superior Court of California (County of Sacramento) overturned a property owner-approved special assessment created by the Carmichael Recreation and Park District. Dennis highlights valuable lessons for all public agencies considering similar assessments.

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Lessons Learned from an A/E/C Intranet Overhaul

Lessons Learned from an A/E/C Intranet Overhaul

7.3 minute read

June 26, 2016

Harris & Associates' Director of Marketing & Communications Nathan M. Couch discusses an approach to rebuilding an A/E/C industry intranet through knowledge management best practices.

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Utility Undergrounding: What’s Your Next Step?

Utility Undergrounding: What’s Your Next Step?

3.1 minute read

June 08, 2016

Project Manager and former PG&E employee Rocco Colicchia walks through the steps cities can take to set up a utility undergrounding program and maximize funding.

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Padre Dam Maintenance and Operations Yard Improvements Project: Project Complexities No Match for Planning and Teamwork

Padre Dam Maintenance and Operations Yard Improvements Project: Project Complexities No Match for Planning and Teamwork

4.2 minute read

May 26, 2016

Construction Manager Eric Jackson discusses his project with the Padre Dam Municipal Water District.

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Finding Solutions to the Funding Shortage in Transportation Infrastructure

Finding Solutions to the Funding Shortage in Transportation Infrastructure

2.9 minute read

May 03, 2016

Transportation infrastructure is deteriorating. Funding for transportation projects is dwindling. Here are some ideas how agencies can maximize their existing funding.

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A Roundabout Way to Solve a Monterey Traffic Snarl: Holman Highway 68/State Route 1 Project

A Roundabout Way to Solve a Monterey Traffic Snarl: Holman Highway 68/State Route 1 Project

2.4 minute read

May 02, 2016

Monterey's Holman Highway 68 Roundabout Project is discussed from the design and construction management perspective.

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Tomorrow's Engineers (Part 2): Let’s Team Up to Change the World

Tomorrow's Engineers (Part 2): Let’s Team Up to Change the World

3.6 minute read

April 20, 2016

Discussion of the next generation of engineers and the need for the A/E/C industry to focus on recruiting them.

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An Inside Look at California's Proposed Stormwater Initiative: A Q&A with Mitch Avalon

An Inside Look at California's Proposed Stormwater Initiative: A Q&A with Mitch Avalon

6.5 minute read

February 25, 2016

Harris Director Frank Lopez hosts a Q&A with Mitch Avalon, a consultant to the County Engineers Association of California and driving force behind the Stormwater Initiative.

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Cool Under Pressure: Learn Best Practices for HDPE Fusion Welding

Cool Under Pressure: Learn Best Practices for HDPE Fusion Welding

2.2 minute read

February 02, 2016

This post previews the upcoming whitepaper and NASTT No-Dig Show presentation of Harris trenchless technology experts Kyle Carbert and Vern Phillips on best practices for HDPE welding in high pressure applications.

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Washington's New Gas Tax (Part 3): Is There Light at the End of Our Infrastructure Tunnel?

Washington's New Gas Tax (Part 3): Is There Light at the End of Our Infrastructure Tunnel?

3.9 minute read

January 13, 2016

In Director Sam Yaghmaie's grand finale of his Washington Gas Tax series he discusses how we can use technology, innovations, and different planning strategies to ensure a more sustainable and effective transportation system.

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Washington's New Gas Tax (Part 2): The Wrong Transportation Priorities

Washington's New Gas Tax (Part 2): The Wrong Transportation Priorities

4.0 minute read

January 04, 2016

We should be proud that Washington State is among the first eight states to approve a recurring revenue package in the interest of improving transportation infrastructure with critical funding needs. Unfortunately, the priorities are backward in the $16 billion Connecting Washington Transportation Package.

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Construction Management, Program Management and Project Management: What's the Difference?

Construction Management, Program Management and Project Management: What's the Difference?

3.2 minute read

December 02, 2015

Vice President of Construction Management Sean Dunbar discusses the nuances between construction management, program management and project management and why a better understanding of these roles leads to success.

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Nurturing Sustainability

Nurturing Sustainability

3.2 minute read

November 17, 2015

Sustainability is the capacity to endure; it is how biological systems remain diverse and productive indefinitely. It is a global issue that crosses borders, politics, race, social status, religion.

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Lessons from the CM Trenches

3.2 minute read

November 09, 2015

In this post, Senior CM Daniel Sicile-Kira showcases the lighter side of construction management, re-capping some of the valuable lessons he's learned when projects didn't always go as planned.

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Operational Excellence: How to Succeed in Business by Shooting for the Stars

Operational Excellence: How to Succeed in Business by Shooting for the Stars

4.3 minute read

November 04, 2015

Ehab Gerges discusses operational excellence in the context of the A/E/C industry: what it means and how it can help your business succeed.

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Public Works Profiles: Q&A with Public Works Director Donald T. Wilcox

Public Works Profiles: Q&A with Public Works Director Donald T. Wilcox

4.9 minute read

October 28, 2015

At Harris & Associates, we know that our clients work within an ever-changing landscape. To understand the challenges at hand, we go straight to the source.Recently, we sat down with Donald Wilcox, Public Works Director for the City of Soledad, California.

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Today's Construction Manager: Redefining CM

Today's Construction Manager: Redefining CM

3.9 minute read

September 29, 2015

Eric Jackson dispels misconceptions regarding the role of construction managers in today’s environment and defines the true value they are capable of bringing to all parties on every project.

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Small City, Huge Challenge: Designing The San Ramon Storm Drain

Small City, Huge Challenge: Designing The San Ramon Storm Drain

2.9 minute read

September 21, 2015

The San Ramon Canyon Storm Drain Project was a practical and aesthetic success, and a model for other small cities.

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Case in Point: Protecting Your City's Impact Fee Dollars

Case in Point: Protecting Your City's Impact Fee Dollars

4.0 minute read

September 14, 2015

In light of the recent Walker v. City of San Clemente case, Harris VP of Public Finance Dennis Klingelhofer offers expert advice for public agencies on AB1600 and development impact fees.

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Myths and Facts about BIM

Myths and Facts about BIM

4.1 minute read

September 08, 2015

If I offered you a way to make your design and construction team collaborate better, improve productivity and save time, wouldn’t you take it? That’s the essence of building information modeling (BIM) or Virtual Design and Construction (VCD).

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Beyond Complex: How to Keep Up with Changing ADA Regulations

Beyond Complex: How to Keep Up with Changing ADA Regulations

4.5 minute read

August 31, 2015

As standards and regulations of the ADA continuously evolve, how can public agencies reduce confusion, keep connected and stay "in the know" about the ever-changing accessibility laws pertaining to facilities within the public right-of-way?

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It's Time for Architects and Construction Managers and Owners to Get Serious about Collaboration

It's Time for Architects and Construction Managers and Owners to Get Serious about Collaboration

4.1 minute read

August 24, 2015

It’s time for a new era of collaboration. For the good of their projects and their clients, architects and CMs need to—and can—come together as willing partners. Creating formalized relationships at the pre-construction phase, even the pre-design phase, will generate better results for all involved.

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Washington’s New Gas Tax (Part 1): Is This the Answer for Infrastructure?

Washington’s New Gas Tax (Part 1): Is This the Answer for Infrastructure?

3.7 minute read

August 11, 2015

In June 2015, the Washington State Legislature approved a historic $16+ billion Connecting Washington Transportation Package to fund transportation infrastructure and services projects. While we definitely need infrastructure and funding, I must ask: Will we spend this money wisely?

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Stormwater Phase II Small MS4 Permit Requirements: How Public Agencies Can Navigate the Complex and Changing Development Process

3.8 minute read

August 03, 2015

Under the latest California State Water Resources Control Board regulations, development projects must implement a Low Impact Development (LID) approach.

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Our New Design Challenge: Tomorrow's Engineers

Our New Design Challenge: Tomorrow's Engineers

3.2 minute read

July 27, 2015

It's clear to me that we're going to need a new kind of engineer to deal with what's coming; the stereotypical one of the past just doesn’t have everything in the pocket protector to address these issues. But what are we to do? Here are some answers.

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Small Spaces, Huge Implications: The Chu Hall Challenge

Small Spaces, Huge Implications: The Chu Hall Challenge

2.2 minute read

July 13, 2015

Scientific research facilities like Lawrence Berkeley National Labs' Chu Hall often have highly challenging construction environments. Read more about Chu Hall's unique building circumstances and how we were able to address them.

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What are EIFDs, and Are They the Answer to Your Infrastructure and Economic Development Challenges?

What are EIFDs, and Are They the Answer to Your Infrastructure and Economic Development Challenges?

1.4 minute read

June 29, 2015

Are you finding it difficult to find funding to pay for critical infrastructure projects? With the passing of SB 626 in September 2014, EIFDs are a new government entity which allow for infrastructure to be funded by tax increment revenue.

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One Solution to California's Water Worries: Innovative Purification and Reuse

One Solution to California's Water Worries: Innovative Purification and Reuse

3.3 minute read

June 08, 2015

Imagine a land with consistent population growth, endless sunshine and limited water resources…dream no more, this is the reality for California. Learn about how the Advanced Water Purification Demonstration plant at the Padre Dam Municipal Water District aims to address the state's water woes.

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